Welcome to Behind the Scams, now streaming from its new home at www.BehindTheScams.org
— and proudly part of the SOS Media Network, the digital outreach division of Stamp Out Scams Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fighting fraud and empowering victims through education, media, and technology.
The SOS Media Network includes ScamTV, Behind the Scams, and a growing lineup of multimedia platforms — all working to make scam prevention modern, relatable, and accessible for everyone.
Hosted by Nick Henley, a former U.S. Treasury Department Special Agent, Certified Fraud Specialist, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator, and licensed California Private Investigator, Behind the Scams pulls listeners deep inside the world of deception — from billion-dollar financial conspiracies to the everyday scams that target people across America.
With over 25 years of experience investigating financial crimes, cyber fraud, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering, Nick brings a rare insider’s perspective to how scams really work — and how to stop them. Co-hosted by Sue Henley, the show blends investigative storytelling, real cases, and expert insights to reveal not just how fraud happens, but why people fall for it.
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Welcome to Behind the Scams, now streaming from its new home at www.BehindTheScams.org
— and proudly part of the SOS Media Network, the digital outreach division of Stamp Out Scams Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fighting fraud and empowering victims through education, media, and technology.
The SOS Media Network includes ScamTV, Behind the Scams, and a growing lineup of multimedia platforms — all working to make scam prevention modern, relatable, and accessible for everyone.
Hosted by Nick Henley, a former U.S. Treasury Department Special Agent, Certified Fraud Specialist, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator, and licensed California Private Investigator, Behind the Scams pulls listeners deep inside the world of deception — from billion-dollar financial conspiracies to the everyday scams that target people across America.
With over 25 years of experience investigating financial crimes, cyber fraud, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering, Nick brings a rare insider’s perspective to how scams really work — and how to stop them. Co-hosted by Sue Henley, the show blends investigative storytelling, real cases, and expert insights to reveal not just how fraud happens, but why people fall for it.
Joe Louis, “The Brown Bomber,” was more than a heavyweight champion; he symbolized hope during America’s divided times. His victories transcended sports, offering shared pride amidst racial inequality. Despite his contributions during World War II, the government he served turned against him, leading to a tragic struggle with bureaucratic indifference. This Veterans Day, we honor Joe Louis and all who have served with courage. Discover the powerful story of dignity and injustice that resonates today.
In this gripping episode of Behind the Scams, Nick and Sue Henley delve into the audacious fraud committed by David Ozer, a once-prominent television producer. With ties to major companies like Sony Pictures and Fox, Ozer seemed like a Hollywood insider who could make dreams come true. However, beneath his polished facade lay a web of deception involving forged contracts and misappropriated funds. Discover how Ozer manipulated investors, including a former FBI agent, and learn about the shocking consequences of his actions. Tune in to explore the dark side of ambition and trust in the entertainment industry.
In this eye-opening episode of *Behind the Scams*, we delve into the alarming rise of fraud targeting older adults, who often find their hard-earned savings exploited by cunning criminals. Join Susan and Nick as they uncover the “Save Our Seniors” initiative, a multi-agency effort aimed at identifying and rescuing victims of elder fraud. Discover the psychology behind these scams—authority, urgency, fear, and isolation—and gain essential tools to protect your loved ones. With real case studies and expert advice, this episode empowers you to stand against fraud and safeguard seniors in your life. Don’t miss the valuable resources at the end!
In this gripping episode of *Behind the Scams*, we unravel the staggering financial fraud of Robert Brockman, a self-made billionaire who constructed a complex web of offshore trusts to hide billions from U.S. authorities. Discover how greed and paranoia fueled his “Turducken Trust” of deception, and learn why the line between tax avoidance and evasion is perilously thin. This episode goes beyond the headlines, exposing the systemic failures that allow such crimes to flourish. Join us as we connect Brockman’s story to modern scams, revealing the emotional blueprint that underpins every act of deception.
In the latest episode of *Behind the Scams*, we dive into a hard truth: the world really does want your wallet. Join us as we unpack vital lessons from Danny Karon’s *Your Lovable Lawyer’s Guide to Legal Wellness*, revealing how scams and deceptive practices drain billions from consumers. From “legal scams” disguised as business practices to the hidden dangers of fine print, we explore real stories of victims and the psychology behind deception. This series is your guide to building stronger defenses against both obvious scams and corporate manipulation. Protect your wallet, your data, and your peace of mind!
In 2025, a staggering 70% of American adults fell victim to scams, losing an estimated $64.8 billion. This episode of *Behind the Scams* dives deep into the Global Anti-Scam Alliance’s shocking report, revealing how scams have evolved into a high-tech, emotionally manipulative threat. Discover the alarming statistics, the emotional toll on victims, and the innovative tactics scammers use, including artificial intelligence. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones in this digital age. Join hosts Nick and Sue Henley as they break down the complexities of scams and empower you to stay informed and vigilant.
Welcome back to *Behind the Scams*, where we expose the shocking truth behind the Praetorian Group International (PGI) Ponzi scheme. Led by Ramil Ventura Palafox, this audacious scam defrauded over 90,000 investors worldwide, raking in at least $200 million. From extravagant yacht parties in Dubai to luxury cars and designer handbags funded by stolen money, this story reveals the dark side of cryptocurrency investments. Join Nick and Sue as they delve into the psychological manipulation and betrayal of trust that left countless families devastated. Don’t miss the crucial lessons on how to spot a crypto Ponzi before it’s too late!
In this powerful episode of Behind the Scams, Nick and Sue uncover the shocking betrayal behind the romance scam that devastated the widow of country music legend George Jones. Known as one of the greatest voices in country music history, George left behind a vast estate, music royalties, and a museum dedicated to his legacy. But after his passing in 2013, his widow Nancy Jones became the target of a career con artist who stole more than $12 million through a calculated twelve-year deception. We dive deep into how scammer Kirk Leipzig (alias Kirk West) insinuated himself into Nancy’s life,... Read More
In Part 2 of our deep dive into the Water Station Ponzi scheme, we uncover the shocking details of federal indictments against Ryan Wear and his co-conspirator, Jordan Chirico. With a staggering $275 million at stake, this episode reveals how investors were lured into a web of deception, with promises of reliable returns leading to phantom machines and inflated claims. Discover how the scheme unraveled in the courts, exposing the devastating impact on countless victims. Tune in now to learn the key lessons on investor protection and the red flags of a Ponzi scheme that you can't afford to miss!
What if you could invest in a simple water vending machine for $8,500 and watch the profits roll in every month? That’s the enticing promise made by Ryan Wear through his company, Water Station Management LLC. But behind this façade lies one of the boldest frauds in recent memory. In our investigation, we reveal how Wear constructed a Ponzi scheme with phantom machines and inflated revenue reports, leaving countless investors, including military veterans, devastated. Join us as we uncover the shocking truth behind the $200 million water station scam in this gripping two-part series.
Step into the chilling world of scam farms, where human trafficking and global fraud intertwine. In this eye-opening episode of *Behind the Scams*, hosts Nick and Sue unveil the dark realities faced by victims lured by false job offers and trapped in guarded compounds. Discover the alarming tactics used by scammers, from romance scams to high-pressure investment pitches, and learn how to protect yourself. This episode not only sheds light on the challenges of shutting down these operations but also empowers you to take action against this growing menace. Don’t miss this crucial conversation—your awareness could make a difference!
Virtual kidnappings have evolved from crude phone scams to chilling high-tech nightmares, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence. Imagine receiving a call that sounds exactly like your child, pleading for help—your heart races, and your rational mind fades away. In Episode 29 of "Behind the Scams," Nick and Sue delve into the terrifying world of AI-driven scams, sharing Amanda's harrowing story and revealing how scammers exploit our deepest fears. Learn how these sophisticated tactics work and discover essential strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming victims of this modern menace.
Keanu Reeves Celebrity Impersonation Scam Welcome back to Behind the Scams, presented by Stamp Out Scams. In this episode, Nick and Sue Henley take listeners deep into a crisis affecting thousands worldwide: celebrity impersonation scams. What starts as a story about fake Keanu Reeves accounts unfolds into a much larger tale of emotional manipulation, industrial-scale scam operations, and real victims losing their life savings. The Real Story of Margaret: A $100,000 Bitcoin Scam The episode covering the Keanu Reeves celebrity impersonation scam begins with Margaret, a 73-year-old woman from the rural South who lost approximately $100,000 in Bitcoin. Margaret was... Read More
In this gripping episode of *Behind the Scams*, hosts Nick and Sue Henley dive into the harrowing case of Nigerian national Charles Uchenna Nwadavid, charged with orchestrating a complex romance scam that exploited victims across the U.S. for over three years. Discover how one woman unknowingly became a "money mule," transferring over $2.5 million in scam proceeds, much of it in Bitcoin. With insights into the psychological tactics used by scammers and the challenges of tracing cryptocurrency, this episode reveals the devastating impact of love, trust, and deception in the digital age. Don’t miss it!
In another exciting episode of *Behind the Scams*, Nick and Sue Henley unveil the shocking $15 million sweepstakes fraud orchestrated by 80-year-old Barbara Trickle. Discover how Trickle and her co-conspirators manipulated thousands of victims, primarily seniors, with deceptive prize notices that promised life-changing sums of money. Learn about the psychological tactics used to exploit trust and urgency, and find out how federal authorities took action to shut down this elaborate scheme. Don’t miss the full story and essential tips to protect yourself from similar scams—visit behindthescams.org/ for more insights!
In this explosive episode of Behind the Scams, hosts Nick and Sue Henley unravel a heartbreaking and jaw-dropping federal case involving a Houston couple who defrauded elderly victims out of millions through romance scams. Drawing from Nick’s former law enforcement experience and insights into federal indictments, this episode walks you through the scams, the tactics, and the justice system’s response. Akporugo and Sood’s indictment isn’t just another scam story—it’s a shocking revelation of how far scammers will go, and a call to action for listeners everywhere. The Love Scam Ring Playbook: Fake Love, Real Money From fake oil rig... Read More
A Heartbreaking Tale of Love, Loss, and Deception: Lost Pet Scams When Chloe’s beloved family cat Percy went missing, the anxiety alone was almost unbearable. But what followed was even worse — a scam so cruel and calculated, it left emotional and financial scars. In this eye-opening episode of Behind the Scams, Nick and Sue uncover one of the most emotionally manipulative cons out there: The Lost Pet Scam. The Emotional Manipulation at the Heart of the Lost Pet Scam Lost pet scams are more than just financial frauds. They target people at their most vulnerable — pet owners terrified... Read More
Crypto Scam: Episode Overview In one of our most jaw-dropping episodes to date, Behind the Scams pulls back the curtain on a newly unsealed federal indictment that reveals a sprawling, highly organized cryptocurrency fraud operation. This is not your average crypto scam — it’s a full-blown cybercrime syndicate that used high-level social engineering, psychological manipulation, and tech-savvy laundering strategies to steal more than $245 million in digital currency from unsuspecting victims across the United States. Nick and Sue walk you through this complex case, breaking down how a cast of characters with nicknames like “King Greavys,” “Papa,” “GothFerrari,” and “The... Read More
️ Episode Description The Hook: Dreams, Pizza & Pink Cadillac Promises Monique was fresh out of the Air Force, craving purpose and community when a friend invited her to a Mary Kay “opportunity night,” a typical event in multi-level marketing. Between the free pizza, glossy brochures, and a $99 starter kit that “practically pays for itself,” success seemed inevitable. What she didn’t see were the crushing credit-card balances, mounting inventory, and psychological pressure waiting beneath the pink confetti. In this episode of Behind the Scams, hosts Nick & Sue Henley reveal how a single slice of pepperoni turned into a... Read More
In the United Arab Emirates, a new breed of Ponzi schemes is thriving, disguised as modern tech startups. In our latest episode, we delve into the harrowing real-life stories of victims who have lost millions to these scams. From a $85 million real estate fraud led by a flashy con artist to a fake AI crypto platform that duped investors out of $40 million, the emotional and financial toll is devastating. Join us as we uncover the dark side of startup culture and share essential tips to protect yourself from becoming the next victim.
Welcome to Behind the Scams, now streaming from its new home at www.BehindTheScams.org
— and proudly part of the SOS Media Network, the digital outreach division of Stamp Out Scams Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fighting fraud and empowering victims through education, media, and technology.
The SOS Media Network includes ScamTV, Behind the Scams, and a growing lineup of multimedia platforms — all working to make scam prevention modern, relatable, and accessible for everyone.
Hosted by Nick Henley, a former U.S. Treasury Department Special Agent, Certified Fraud Specialist, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator, and licensed California Private Investigator, Behind the Scams pulls listeners deep inside the world of deception — from billion-dollar financial conspiracies to the everyday scams that target people across America.
With over 25 years of experience investigating financial crimes, cyber fraud, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering, Nick brings a rare insider’s perspective to how scams really work — and how to stop them. Co-hosted by Sue Henley, the show blends investigative storytelling, real cases, and expert insights to reveal not just how fraud happens, but why people fall for it.
